HANNYA

A Joshua Mizusawa art exhibit

May & June 2024

Mizusawa's journey as an artist is deeply rooted in his personal experiences. Growing up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as the fourth child in a mixed-race family, he was immersed in the rich cultural traditions of both Hispanic and Japanese heritage. His interest in art was sparked by both his grandfather's paintings of the rural landscapes and adobe homes of New Mexico, and his grandmother's intricate Buddhist shrine and objects from Japan.These diverse nuences and his daily dedication to improving his skills have shaped Mizusawa's art. It is a unique blend of the vibrant colors of New Mexico and the symbolic depth of Japanese culture, each stroke telling a story that reflects the meaningful experiences of his life.

Hannya: 36 x 48 | Acrylic on wood panel (2024) by Joshua Mizusawa.

Hannya : Artist Statement

Not much can compare to a beautiful sunset, whether on a partially cloudy evening in New Mexico or along the coast in California. This is one of the memories I have of my childhood. For a short moment, my family would stop and watch the sun slowly fall behind the horizon, soaking in the last glimpse of a beautiful moment when all troubles fade. But life isn’t always as beautiful, sometimes it’s difficult … sometimes it's cruel. The Hannya mask, a recurring motif in my art, tells the story of a woman betrayed, transforming into a vengeful spirit. It's a powerful symbol of how our emotions can shape us and the consequences of unchecked feelings. I believe we all are faced with difficult emotions that transform. Inner demons toil with inner peace. Through my paintings, I aim to carry the weight of life's struggles and the beauty of a soft sunset. Maybe for a short while, we can watch the sun fall behind the horizon on a difficult day, and just for a moment, the inner demons will fade.

-Joshua Mizusawa